Sonakshi Sarkar

Sikkim on Thursday observed State Disaster Risk Reduction Day, under the aegis of the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) and the Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department, with a renewed call for strengthening resilience and preparedness across the Himalayan state. The day holds deep emotional significance for Sikkim, as it marks the anniversary of the devastating 6.9 magnitude earthquake of September 18, 2011, which left behind a trail of destruction, loss of lives, and long-lasting impacts on livelihoods. Recalling the tragedy, the state leadership described it as a solemn reminder of Sikkim’s vulnerabilities, given its fragile Himalayan ecosystem and…

Sikkim secured the second runner-up position at the St. John Old Boys’ Association (SJOBA) Time-Speed-Distance Car Rally 2025, one of India’s prestigious motorsport events, demonstrating skill, precision, and competitive spirit. The rally commenced in Chandigarh on September 13 and concluded at Gaj Resort in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, on September 14, covering a challenging route that included rough village roads and narrow stretches designed to test endurance and accuracy. Representing Sikkim in the Amateur category, driver Annapurna Alley and navigator Puran Tamang finished third among 40 teams from across India, marking a significant achievement for the state’s motorsports community. Their performance has…

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has condemned the arrest of its spokesperson Arun Limboo, calling the move “undemocratic” and “politically motivated.” The party has demanded his immediate release, alleging that the ruling establishment is attempting to silence opposition voices. Limboo was arrested following an FIR lodged by Sonam Choden Bhutia, Officer on Special Duty (Legal) to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. The complaint accuses Limboo of circulating manipulated images, derogatory content, and threatening messages directed at the Chief Minister and his spouse, Krishna Kumari Rai. Among the alleged posts were references to “atom bomb” and “hydrogen bomb,” which police say…

A Nepali national was arrested in East Sikkim on Saturday for illegally entering a protected area and carrying forged Indian identity documents, raising security concerns along the Indo-Nepal border. The accused, Rajesh Biswakarma, a resident of Mechinagar in Nepal’s Jhapa district, was apprehended in Rumtek, a designated Protected Area. Officials said Biswakarma had entered the area without a valid Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is mandatory for foreigners in such zones. During the arrest, authorities recovered multiple forged Indian identification cards under the alias “Sanu Pradhan”, but his true identity was confirmed through his Nepal National ID. A case has…

The capital city of Gangtok came alive early this morning as residents joined hands to celebrate Engineer’s Day with a spirited run organised in honour of Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, one of India’s most revered engineers. The event, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from engineers, students, and local residents, was also graced by the Hon’ble Minister Ven. Sonam Lama. The minister joined participants in the run and later addressed the gathering, emphasising the significant role engineers play in shaping Sikkim’s infrastructure and overall development. Speaking to the crowd, Minister Lama said, “Engineers are the backbone of our modern society. Their…